For a book to stay in print for nearly 350 years, its merits must continually entice and satisfy. The Compleat Angler qualifies on both counts. On the most obvious level, it remains as good a primer on fishing as any angler would want.

Izaak Walton's sometimes convoluted 17th-century grammar can still reel in our imaginations with his graceful evocations of a life free from hurly-burly in the company of friends intent on physical and moral sustenance.

"He that hopes to be a good Angler must not only bring an inquiring, searching, observing wit," suggests the master, "but he must bring a large measure of hope and patience... Doubt not but Angling will prove to be so pleasant, that it will prove to be like a virtue, a reward to itself.

Just like Walton's magnificent literary catch.

My late father had collected many fine books - this is one from his estate.

Here is a really nice 1962 reprint of this fine writing.

215 pages of great reading!